NFU relief at ‘common sense’ decision on polytunnels

The NFU today expressed relief that common sense had prevailed after council planners approved plans for polytunnels at a farm that was at the centre of a landmark High Court ruling last year.

Last December the High Court upheld Waverley Borough Council's enforcement notice for the removal of Spanish polytunnels by the Hall Hunter Partnership at Tuesley Farm in Surrey. The ruling meant the farm had to take down its polytunnels, windbreaks and temporary workers' accommodation.

But a new application submitted by Hall Hunter was granted planning permission by Waverley Borough Council this week.

Richard Hirst, NFU horticulture board chairman, said: "This decision at Tuesley Farm will be welcomed by soft fruit growers and we are relieved common sense has prevailed. It is important that the needs of food producers are recognised if we are to ensure we can continue to deliver the quality produce the consumers rightly expect and generate much needed output and employment in the rural economy.

"However, we also realise that the use of polytunnels is a contentious issue and it is important that the concerns of local residents are properly considered. This case has shown that constructive dialogue with receptive planners and residents can yield results that strike a balance between the needs of a changing farming industry, the environment, and local people. We commend the efforts of Hall Hunter who have worked with all parties to put together an acceptable application."